Port Orford is located on the southern Oregon coast, just south of Coos Bay and Cape Arago. This town offers a unique combination of scenic beauty and surf potential. It's the westernmost town in the contiguous United States and is somewhat of a hidden gem for surfers. With a backdrop of dense woods, rivers, and lakes, Port Orford provides a laid-back vibe but can get pretty crowded due to its accessibility. The small surf spot is divided mainly between Hubbard Creek and Battle Rock, both offering different sensations depending on the conditions.
When it comes to surfing, Port Orford can be hit or miss. Surfing is generally best when the northwesterlies are blowing hard. Hubbard Creek serves up some mellow waves, handling swells sizes from around 4 ft to 8 ft (1.2 m to 2.4 m) and is more sheltered, especially in the spring. The waves here break over sand and pebbles, producing fun lefts and rights. On the other hand, Battle Rock can be a little funky, working during heavy winter swells when the winds are right. For the optimum experience, look for mid to high tide and north winds, and the waves can be suitable for beginners and those riding shortboards, funboards, longboards, or fish.
Access to the surf spots is straightforward, which contributes to the crowd factor. Parking can be found just off Highway 101, and getting to the beach is easy. You’ll find a mix of locals and travelers enjoying the waves, but the scene remains generally laid-back. Keep in mind that the best surfing is typically between November and May, so that’s when you’re likely to see more activity in the water. Overall, Port Orford can be fun, especially if you catch the waves with the right conditions.